Why has my child has lost self-esteem?

Q: My child has been saying some strange things which I find quite worrying. He says there are bad things in his head and asks what to do if he says bad words? Which can be quite simple like shut up. He seems to have lost all self esteem. It may sound like nothing but he just seems to be acting strange and seems very sad and worried.

A:Your child seems to be going through a phase of superego development. He is internalising what you adults say to him when he does anything bad. Try not to be too critical or interfering. Do not be judgmental. Do not worry. Try to boost his self-esteem by praising his good points. Encourage any happy phases.